Winter - Kinkaku-ji Temple

Kinkakuji Temple in Winter

If you’re visiting Kyoto in winter, don’t despair – the Kinkaku-ji Temple and the Golden Pavilion are open throughout the year, irrespective of the weather!

And what’s more, the visit in winter may actually offer more unforgettable memories than the peak season, which tends to be when the cherry blossoms are blooming.

Not only are the crowds much less, the Kinkaku-ji Temple and surroundings look almost ethereal after a fresh snowfall, so much so that you may actually look forward to a fresh snow forecast the night before heading there.

Planning a trip to Kinkaku-ji Temple and the Golden Pavilion? Visit our Kinkaku-ji Temple home page for the complete rundown on every single detail!

And if you’re just starting to plan your visit to Japan, check out some of the top things to do in Japan, many of which you absolutely don’t want to miss!

Make sure you enter as close to opening hours as possible, to experience the delight of virgin snow all around you in picturesque settings of the golden temple, gardens and ponds!

Kinkakuji Temple in winter with the Golden Pavilion surroundings blanketed in snow

The snow-capped roof and icy Mirror Pond create stunning reflection effects that travel photographers will love!

Dress warmly and in layers as you can expect the weather to be chilly and be sure to stop at the temple’s tea house, Sekkatei, for some warm matcha tea!